Pericoronitis is a common dental problem that occurs when the gum flap covering the wisdom tooth becomes inflamed and infected. This inflammation usually occurs in young adults who have partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth. Pericoronitis treatment is essential to alleviate the pain and prevent the infection from spreading. In this blog post, We will discuss the various treatment options for pericoronitis, including home remedies, over-the-counter medications, and professional dental procedures.
Causes and Symptoms
Pericoronitis typically occurs as a result of poor oral hygiene, which can cause food debris and bacteria to accumulate around the partially erupted wisdom tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the mouth, causing dental abscesses and other complications.
In rare cases, the infection may spread to other parts of the body, causing life-threatening complications, such as sepsis or Ludwig angina. Pericoronitis treatment is crucial to prevent any complications.
The most common symptoms of pericoronitis include:
- Pain and tenderness in the area around the wisdom tooth
- Redness, swelling, and inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom tooth
- A foul taste in your mouth due to pus drainage from the infected area
- Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth due to pain and tenderness
- Bad breath
- Fever or other signs of infection
Home Remedies for Pericoronitis Treatment
Home remedies are often the first line of treatment for pericoronitis. These simple, low-cost options can help reduce inflammation and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with pericoronitis. However, these remedies are not a substitute for medical treatment and should be used with professional dental care.
Some home remedies for pericoronitis include:
- OTC painkillers (e.g., ibuprofen or acetaminophen) to reduce pain and inflammation
- Warm salt water rinses to help reduce inflammation and clean the area around the wisdom tooth
- Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing to reduce bacteria in the area
- Antiseptic mouthwashes, such as chlorhexidine gluconate, to help fight infection
Professional Treatment for Pericoronitis
Pericoronitis home remedies don’t replace professional treatment. If you’re experiencing severe pain, redness, or swelling due to pericoronitis, it’s important to seek professional medical treatment.
Common treatments for pericoronitis include:
- Professional teeth cleaning: Your dentist will use special instruments to clean plaque and bacteria from the area around your wisdom tooth.
- Antibiotics: Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help fight infection, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain.
- Surgical removal of the inflamed gum flap: Your dentist may recommend the surgical removal of the gum flap covering a wisdom tooth. This procedure is known as “operculectomy” and is performed using a scalpel, electro-surgery, or laser surgery.
- Extraction of the wisdom tooth: In cases of severe or recurrent pericoronitis or impacted wisdom teeth, your dentist may recommend extraction of the affected tooth.
No matter what treatment you receive for pericoronitis, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits and consult with your dentist regularly to prevent further inflammation or complications.
Treatment for Pericoronitis – Conclusion
Pericoronitis is a common condition that can cause pain and inflammation of the gum tissue flap covering partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth. Home remedies like OTC medications, warm salt water rinses, and antiseptic mouthwashes can help reduce discomfort. However, pericoronitis home remedies don’t replace professional treatment.
Professional treatments for pericoronitis include teeth cleaning, antibiotics, operculectomy, and extraction of the affected tooth. After receiving treatment, be sure to practice good oral hygiene habits and consult with your dentist if necessary.
